With the emergence of the Internet of Things (IoT) and the increase in the number of connected objects, connectivity is becoming a key issue to ensure the proper functioning of these devices. M2M SIM cards play a crucial role in the connectivity of connected objects by allowing them to be connected to a cellular network. However, there are several connectivity modes available for connected objects (2G, 3G, 4G, 5G, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, LoRa, LTE-M or even cellular LPWAN).
Each of these connectivity modes has advantages and disadvantages in terms of coverage, throughput, cost, power consumption and security. The objective of this article is to compare the different connectivity modes available for connected objects and explain their strengths and limitations.
The different connectivity modes for connected objects
Characteristics and areas of use of the main connectivity modes: 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, LoRa, LTE-M and cellular LPWAN
There are several connectivity modes available for connected objects, each with its own characteristics and areas of use. The main connectivity modes are as follows:
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- 2G: the first generation of cellular networks, this is a digital voice network that also offers low-speed data services such as text messaging. 2G networks are widely used in rural and remote areas where 3G and 4G networks are not yet available. 2G can be used for basic devices such as cell phones and GPS tracking systems.
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- 3G: This is the third generation of cellular networks. 3G offers high-speed voice and data services, such as Internet browsing, video calling and data streaming services. 3G networks are widely used in urban and densely populated areas. 3G can be used for advanced devices such as tablets and smartphones.
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- 4G: this is the fourth generation of cellular networks. 4G offers very high speed voice and data services, such as real-time web browsing, HD video calling and real-time data streaming services. 4G networks are widely used in urban and densely populated areas.
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- 5G: the fifth and last generation of cellular networks, 5G offers the same characteristics as the 4G network but with a much improved speed. 5G is up to 10 times faster than 4G, thanks to the use of the new 5G band (3.5 Ghz). Operators are deploying 5G primarily in major cities and towns for now. 4G and 5G can be used for very advanced devices such as surveillance cameras and drones.
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It is important to note that 2G, 3G, 4G and 5G cellular networks require an M2M SIM card to function properly. The latter allows connected objects to connect to a cellular network to exchange data.
Wi-Fi: this is a wireless connectivity mode that allows connected objects to connect to a local network. It offers high-speed data services, such as Internet browsing, video calling and data streaming services.
Wi-Fi networks are widely used in urban and densely populated areas.
Connected objects that use Wi-Fi networks are usually advanced devices such as laptops, tablets and smartphones.
Bluetooth: This is a wireless connectivity mode that allows connected objects to connect to other devices nearby. It offers low-speed data services, such as data synchronization and file sharing. Bluetooth networks are widely used for short-range applications, such as wireless headphones and activity trackers. Connected objects that use Bluetooth networks are typically basic devices such as cell phones and GPS tracking systems.
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are wireless connectivity modes that allow connected objects to connect to a local network or other nearby devices. These networks do not require an M2M SIM card to operate. Instead, they use a wireless connection to exchange data. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth networks are often used in addition to cellular networks to provide additional connectivity to connected objects.
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- LoRa: this is a connectivity mode based on LoRa (Long Range) technology that allows connected objects to connect to a local network at low speed. It is mainly used for long range applications such as industrial sensors, energy meters and motion sensors. LoRa technology can be used for sensor devices that require a long data transmission range.
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- LTE-M: This is a connectivity mode based on LTE (Long-Term Evolution) technology that allows connected objects to connect to a low-speed cellular network. It is mainly used for IoT applications, such as industrial sensors, energy meters and motion sensors. This technology can be used for devices that require cellular connectivity to exchange data.
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- Cellular LPWAN: this is a connectivity mode based on LPWAN (Low Power Wide Area Network) technology that allows connected objects to connect to a low-speed cellular network. It is mainly used for IoT applications, such as industrial sensors, energy meters and motion sensors. Cellular LPWAN technology can be used for devices that require cellular connectivity to exchange data with low power consumption.
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Each of these connectivity modes has its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of coverage, throughput, cost, power consumption and security.
The choice of connectivity mode can also impact your data consumption management.
As with 2G, 3G, 4G and 5G cellular networks, LoRa, LTE-M and cellular LPWAN networks require an M2M SIM card to operate. These three technologies are often used for IoT applications that require low-speed connectivity and long data transmission range.
We advise you to choose a multi-operator M2M SIM card which offers the advantage of being able to connect to several operators. It will therefore be able to search for the best network available at a given time in a given geographical area. In case of disconnection, your connected object will request a new network scan from the SIM card which, by sending back the result, will switch the object to the best available network. This will ensure optimal connectivity and maximum reliability of your connected objects.
Why is it important to understand the specifics of each connectivity mode before selecting the one that best suits your connected object project?
Understanding the specifics of each connectivity mode is necessary before selecting the most appropriate one for a connected object project.
Indeed, each mode has its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of coverage, throughput, cost, energy consumption and security.
For example, 2G, 3G, 4G and 5G cellular networks offer extensive coverage but can be expensive to use. LoRa, LTE-M and cellular LPWAN networks, on the other hand, offer long data transmission range at low cost, but less coverage. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth networks are easy to use and inexpensive, but generally do not offer as long a data transmission range as cellular networks.
It is also important to consider the compatibility of the different connectivity modes with the devices used in the project, as some modes are not compatible with all devices. We must also consider the scalability of these different modes, as some are not adapted to a large number of connected objects.
Finally, you need to take into account the security aspects. Understanding the specifics of each mode will ensure that the data exchanged by connected objects is safe and protected.
Advantages and disadvantages of the different connectivity modes
Comparison of different connectivity modes in terms of coverage
Coverage is the extent of the geographic area where connected objects can connect to a network and exchange data. It is important to consider coverage when selecting a connectivity mode for a connected object project. Here is a brief comparison of the different connectivity modes in terms of coverage:
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- 2G, 3G, 4G and 5G: these cellular networks offer extensive coverage in urbanized and densely populated areas. Coverage is generally better in urbanized areas than in rural areas. However, these networks can be expensive to use.
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- Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi networks offer coverage limited to the area where the Wi-Fi router is located. Coverage can be extended by using Wi-Fi repeaters.
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- Bluetooth: Bluetooth networks provide coverage limited to the area where the connected devices are located. Coverage can be extended by using Bluetooth repeaters.
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- LoRa, LTE-M and cellular LPWAN: these networks offer extensive coverage but are limited to rural and sparsely populated areas. Coverage can be extended by using network repeaters.
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Coverage can vary depending on many factors such as population density, physical barriers and weather conditions. It is therefore wise to check the coverage in the area where your connected objects are located to ensure that the connected objects can reliably exchange data.
Comparison of the different connectivity modes in terms of throughput
Throughput is the amount of data that can be transmitted over a network in a given amount of time. Considering throughput when selecting a connectivity mode for a connected object project is important. Here is a comparison of the different connectivity modes in terms of throughput:
Wi-Fi: these networks offer high speeds, up to several gigabits per second. However, the data transmission speed depends on the distance between the connected device and the Wi-Fi router.
LoRa, LTE-M and cellular LPWAN: these networks offer relatively low data rates, ranging from a few kilobits to a few tens of kilobits per second. They are suitable for applications that require low data rate and long data transmission range.
2G, 3G, 4G and 5G: these cellular networks offer high speeds, ranging from a few kilobits per second for 2G to several gigabits per second for 5G.
Bluetooth: this network offers lower data rates than cellular and Wi-Fi networks, generally between 1 and 3 Mbps. They are best suited for applications that require low data rates, such as short-range sensor data transmission.
Throughput is obviously not the only criteria to consider when choosing connectivity for your IoT project. You should also consider coverage, cost, energy consumption and safety.
Comparison of the different connectivity modes in terms of cost
Cost is an important factor to consider when selecting a connectivity mode for a connected object project. Here is a comparison of the different modes in terms of cost:
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- 2G, 3G, 4G and 5G: the costs to use these cellular networks may vary depending on the operator and the amount of data used. They can be expensive to use over the long term, especially for projects with a large number of connected objects.
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- Bluetooth: the costs of using Bluetooth networks are generally low.
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- LoRa, LTE-M and cellular LPWAN: costs to use these networks may vary depending on the operator and the amount of data used. They can be less expensive to use over the long term than cellular networks for projects with a large number of connected objects, as they often require less bandwidth.
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- LoRa, LTE-M and cellular LPWAN: costs to use these networks may vary depending on the operator and the amount of data used. They can be less expensive to use over the long term than cellular networks for projects with a large number of connected objects, as they often require less bandwidth.
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You should also be sure to consider long-term costs, such as subscription costs and maintenance costs. As with network coverage and speed, cost is not the only criterion to consider.
Comparison of different connectivity modes in terms of energy consumption
Energy consumption is an important factor to consider. Here is a comparison of the different connectivity modes in terms of power consumption:
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- 2G, 3G, 4G and 5G: these cellular networks generally require a large amount of energy to operate, as they use complex communication equipment.
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- Wi-Fi: requires a moderate amount of energy to operate, as Wi-Fi uses less complex communication equipment than cellular networks.
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- Bluetooth: requires a small amount of energy to operate, since ilTu uses simple communication equipment.
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- LoRa, LTE-M and cellular LPWAN: These networks are designed to work with low-power equipment, making them suitable for low-power connected object projects. They can be powered by batteries or solar panels and have standby features to save energy when not in use.
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Don’t forget to consider the battery life of the connected objects and choose the connectivity that can guarantee a long life for your project.
Comparison of the different connectivity modes in terms of security
Security is a crucial factor to consider during an IoT project, and in particular, communication security. Here is a comparison of the different connectivity modes in terms of security:
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- 2G, 3G, 4G and 5G: these cellular networks have standard security protocols, such as data encryption. However, they can be vulnerable to interception and hacking attacks due to their complexity. The security protocols of the 5G are more advanced than those of 4G and 3G.
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- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth: These networks have standard security protocols, such as data encryption, but they can be vulnerable to interception and hacking attacks.
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- LoRa, LTE-M and cellular LPWAN: these networks have standard security protocols such as data encryption. But they can also offer higher levels of security than traditional cellular networks because of their simplicity. LoRaWAN security protocols, for example, include end-to-end encryption, device authentication and key management capabilities.
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We recommend that you consult with a security expert to assess the potential risks and select the connectivity that best suits your security needs.
Examples of use cases and connectivity modes adapted to a connected objects project
There are many use cases for connected objects, and each project may have different needs in terms of coverage, throughput, cost or security. Here are some examples:
- Vehicle location tracking: for a vehicle location tracking project, a 4G or 5G cellular network would be suitable. These offer extensive coverage and high throughput for transmitting data in real time.
- Remote health monitoring: for a remote health monitoring project, a cellular LoRa or LPWAN network would be suitable. It offers low power consumption and wide coverage for portable devices.
- Agricultural monitoring: for a project to monitor an agricultural field, a cellular LoRa or LPWAN network would be suitable. These modes offer low power consumption and extended coverage for outdoor devices.
How to choose the most suitable connectivity mode for your connected objects project?
Before selecting a connectivity mode for a connected object project, it is important to define the needs and constraints of your project. This will ensure that the selected connectivity mode will really suit the specific needs of the project and guarantee a better success rate.
Needs to be considered may include:
- Coverage area required for the project
- Data rates required for the project
- Allowable energy consumption for connected devices
- Security requirements for sensitive data
- The cost of operating and acquiring connected devices
Needs to be considered may include:
- Budgetary limits
- The limits of the available technology
- The limits of regulation and compliance
- Limitations on the availability of network operators in the desired coverage area.
By taking these needs and constraints into account, you will be able to select the connectivity mode that best suits your connected object project and guarantee its success. It is also important to consult with experts to assist you in this process and to help you evaluate the different options available.